15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 93.52 percent of the residents in 15832 has some form of health insurance. 65.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 57.09 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 15832 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 15 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 15832. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 112 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 45 health care providers accessible to residents in 15832, Driftwood, Pennsylvania.

**Breast Cancer Score Analysis: Physicians in ZIP Code 15832 and Primary Care in Driftwood**

The evaluation of breast cancer care within a specific geographic area requires a multifaceted approach, going beyond simple statistics. This analysis focuses on ZIP Code 15832, encompassing the community of Driftwood, Pennsylvania, and aims to assess the availability and quality of care, particularly concerning primary care physicians (PCPs) and their impact on breast cancer detection and support. The analysis examines factors like physician-to-patient ratios, notable medical practices, telemedicine integration, and the availability of mental health resources, all crucial components of a comprehensive breast cancer care landscape.

The foundation of effective breast cancer care lies in accessible primary care. PCPs are often the first point of contact for patients, playing a critical role in screening, early detection, and referral to specialists. In Driftwood, the availability of PCPs is a crucial indicator. A low physician-to-patient ratio could indicate limited access, potentially leading to delayed diagnoses and poorer outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests greater accessibility, allowing for more frequent check-ups, earlier detection of suspicious symptoms, and timely referrals for mammograms and other diagnostic procedures. The analysis must determine the precise physician-to-patient ratio within ZIP Code 15832, comparing it to regional and national averages to gauge relative accessibility.

Beyond sheer numbers, the quality of primary care is paramount. The analysis should identify standout practices within the ZIP Code. This involves evaluating their commitment to preventative care, including their adherence to breast cancer screening guidelines established by organizations like the American Cancer Society. Factors such as patient satisfaction scores, the utilization of electronic health records (EHRs) for efficient data management and communication, and the availability of patient education materials are all important considerations. Practices that demonstrate a proactive approach to breast cancer screening, offer comprehensive patient education, and maintain strong referral networks to specialists are likely to be rated higher.

Telemedicine has emerged as a valuable tool in healthcare, particularly in rural areas like Driftwood. Its adoption can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients who face geographical barriers or mobility limitations. The analysis should investigate the extent to which PCPs in ZIP Code 15832 utilize telemedicine for consultations, follow-up appointments, and patient education. Practices that embrace telemedicine can potentially enhance patient convenience, reduce travel time, and improve the overall efficiency of care delivery. The availability of telehealth platforms and the integration of these platforms into existing workflows are key indicators of telemedicine adoption.

The emotional and psychological impact of a breast cancer diagnosis and treatment is substantial. Access to mental health resources is a critical component of comprehensive care. The analysis should assess the availability of mental health services within Driftwood and the surrounding areas. This includes identifying therapists, counselors, and support groups that specialize in oncology or offer support to cancer patients and their families. The ease of access to these resources, the integration of mental health services into the care pathway, and the collaboration between PCPs and mental health professionals are all important factors to consider. Practices that proactively address the mental health needs of their patients are likely to foster better outcomes and improve overall quality of life.

The success of breast cancer care also hinges on the strength of the referral network. PCPs need to have established relationships with specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals. The analysis should evaluate the referral patterns of PCPs in ZIP Code 15832, assessing the efficiency and timeliness of referrals to specialized care. Practices that have strong referral networks and collaborate effectively with specialists can ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate treatment. The availability of specialized services, such as diagnostic imaging and surgical options, within a reasonable distance of Driftwood is also a crucial factor.

Data collection for this analysis requires a multi-pronged approach. Publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and professional medical organizations can provide valuable insights into physician-to-patient ratios, practice characteristics, and the availability of specialized services. Patient reviews and surveys can provide valuable information about patient satisfaction and the quality of care. Direct communication with PCPs in the ZIP Code is essential to gather information about their practices, telemedicine adoption, and referral networks.

The final "Breast Cancer Score" for physicians in ZIP Code 15832 will be a composite score, reflecting the weighted average of the factors discussed above. Each factor will be assigned a weight based on its relative importance. The score will provide a comprehensive assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in Driftwood, highlighting strengths and weaknesses. This analysis will provide a valuable resource for patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers seeking to improve breast cancer care in the area. The findings can inform efforts to address any identified gaps in care and to promote the adoption of best practices.

In conclusion, this analysis provides a framework for evaluating breast cancer care in Driftwood, Pennsylvania. By considering physician-to-patient ratios, standout practices, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and referral networks, a comprehensive assessment of the quality and accessibility of care can be achieved. The resulting "Breast Cancer Score" will serve as a valuable tool for patients and healthcare professionals, guiding them toward the best possible care options.